Let’s admit it once and for all: Bathing your dog at home is a messy, back-breaking task. More so, if your pup is not a fan of bath time.
Worse, water splashes everywhere, fur clogs up the drain, and before you know it, your pet wash area looks like a disaster zone.
Sounds relatable, doesn’t it?
Well, I’ve been there, faced it, until I built my own DIY dog wash station, a pocket and pet friendly spot to bathe my dog.
In fact, build it right and you can turn your pup’s bath time into an easy and enjoyable experience.
Now, I am sure you’re curious how to build a dog wash station DIY. And that’s exactly why I’ve detailed step-by-step instructions to help you build a dog bath along with expert insights from my dog wash in Memphis.
So, read on and know you can turn any unused space in your home into a dog wash.
DIY Dog Wash Station: Here’s How To Build One
As rewarding as it is, a dog wash station DIY is also a complex project involving technicalities that all DIYers should be aware of.
For instance, from the right location to proper plumbing to waterproof materials, and more, there’s a lot that you’ve to figure out.
Not to mention, you’ve to also follow the right steps with accuracy to bring your DIY dog washer to life.
Nevertheless, to make the entire process easier, I’ve divided it into three, namely, selecting location, sourcing materials, and construction.
Select the right location
First thing first, you’ve got to select the right location of your DIY dog wash station.
In fact, this is one of the most important decisions you’ll make while building an at-home dog wash. After all, it is the location that determines how functional and efficient this wash station is going to be.
And to that end, you’ll need a space that is functional, easy to clean, and has access to plumbing.
Here are some of the best options you can choose from:
1. Laundry room
The laundry room is one of the most popular places to build a dog wash station at your home. And this is mainly for two reasons:
First, it has a water supply and a floor drain, which makes it easy to install plumbing.
Second, it’s a space designed to handle moisture and messes, and, thus, ideal for dog washing.
2. Garage
If you want an out-of-the-way location, your garage is a great option. Here, you can install a simple dog washing station using a raised tub or shower base with a hose hookup.
However, the only downside is that garages can be cold in the winter. And this will call for additional indoor and water heating systems even if your pup has their dog winter apparel on, thus, inflating your budget.
3. Basement
If you have a large and unfurnished basement, a dog wash station here will work really well.
But the only challenge is plumbing access and you might need to install a pump along with a drainage system.
4. DIY outdoor dog wash station
For those who live in a warm climate, an outdoor dog wash station is an excellent option. All you’ve got to do is connect a hose to a shower head and install a drainage-friendly surface like gravel or a deck.
However, this setup isn’t considered ideal in cold weather unless you have access to hot water.
5. Mudroom or entryway
If your dog loves outdoor adventures, a mudroom wash station is perfect. Apart from regular dog baths, you can also quickly rinse off mud and dirt before your dog enters home and as you de-freeze fresh pet dog food for lunch.
Source the required materials and tools
Once you’ve figured out where you want to build a DIY dog washing station in your home, you can now go out shopping for the necessary tools and materials.
Overall, here’s a basic shopping list that you’ll need:
Materials:
- Shower pan or large utility sink
- Waterproof wall panels (tile, PVC, or FRP panels)
- Handheld showerhead or hose attachment
- Drain and plumbing connections
- Non-slip flooring (rubber mats or textured tiles)
- Raised platform or stairs (for easy access)
- Storage shelves or baskets
- Towel hooks
Tools:
- Power drill
- Tile saw (if using tile)
- Level
- Pipe wrench
- Caulk and waterproof sealant
- Screws and wall anchors
Follow the right steps to DIY dog wash station
Having finalized the location and procured materials for your DIY dog washing station, it’s time you actually start building it.
And here are the steps you can follow to do so:
Step 1. Install the base
When building a dog wash station DIY, the first thing that you’ll likely do is install the base.
Here, if you’re using a shower pan, I suggest you start by placing the pan where you want the wash station to be. And while doing so, make sure that it is level and well-positioned to avoid any complications.
Similarly, if you’re going for a custom DIY dog wash tub, you can either repurpose a laundry sink or create your own basin.
But regardless of how you DIY the base, take my advice and use high-quality waterproofing materials to contain water and keep everything contained.
Step 2. Set up plumbing
Next up you’ve got to set up the plumbing which involves connecting a handheld showerhead to an existing water line. In fact, this is an easy and efficient way to create a washing station.
However, if there is no existing water line, you’ll have to install hot and cold water lines.
Not to mention, you’ll also have to take care of drainage by connecting a drainpipe to your home’s plumbing system.
Step 3. Waterproof the walls
Once the plumbing is in place, it’s time to shift focus on waterproofing the walls. This involves placing waterproof panels or tiles on the walls surrounding the wash station to protect your space from water damage.
Also, you’ll have to use caulk and sealant on all the edges and seams to ensure a proper seal and prevent mold or mildew.
Step 4. Add slip-resistant flooring for safety
A slip-resistant flooring is essential to ensure the safety of your pup while they’re being bathed. And to that end, you can use non-slip mats or textured tiles to prevent slips during the wash.
Note: Make sure to add a slight slope toward the drain for proper water runoff and to prevent standing water.
Step 5. Create easy access for your dog
Another important step is creating easy access to the dog wash station. For instance, you can create a small set of steps or a ramp to make it easier for your pup to get in and out without straining themselves.
Bonus: For smaller dogs, you can install a raised tub as it helps avoid excessive bending on your part.
Step 6. Build storage
Once the main DIY dog washer structure is in place, you can now focus on storage.
To begin with, you can install shelves, hooks, and a small cabinet to store all of your dog’s bathing essentials.
Further, you can have a drying rack or waterproof storage bins for drying off your dog and keeping everything organized.
Step 7. Test and add final touches
Finally, once everything is set up, you can test the dog wash station for water pressure and drainage to ensure everything works properly.
Also, check for any leaks or gaps and seal them immediately to avoid future issues.
And to add a bit of personality, you can decorate your dog wash station with fun, pet-friendly touches like a nameplate, decals, or even custom accessories.
What are the benefits of building a DIY dog washing station?
So far, you already know how to build a dog wash station by yourself with the most basic materials and rudimentary skills.
But what are the advantages of having a dedicated wash station for your pup?
Well, there are several benefits of having a dedicated washing area for your dog, including:
1. Convenience & efficiency
Washing your dog in a regular bathtub or outdoors with a garden hose can be uncomfortable for both you and your pup.
At the same time, a dedicated wash station allows you to have better control and makes bath time quicker and more efficient.
2. Keeps your home clean
One of the biggest struggles of dog bathing is the mess it creates. In fact, from fur clogs in the drain to the water splashes everywhere and your dog shaking off to rinse, dog washing creates mess in more ways than not.
Now, a DIY dog bath station helps a great deal contain this mess, especially if it has splash guards and proper drainage.
3. Saves you money in the long run
The cost of mobile dog grooming services, even for a basic dog wash, can be anywhere between $30 and $90 for each visit.
Now, although a DIY dog grooming station is an upfront investment, it will save you hundreds of dollars every year in expensive professional dog wash sessions.
4. Customizable for your pup’s needs
Whether you have a small pup who needs an elevated tub or a large breed that requires a ramp, you can build a wash for your dog’s size and comfort.
5. Great for a family with multiple dogs
If you have more than one dog, a home wash station is even more beneficial. That’s because, instead of struggling with multiple trips to the groomer or constant cleanup after baths, you can quickly wash and dry multiple pets hassle-free.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to build a DIY dog wash station?
The cost of building a DIY dog washing station varies depending on the materials you use, whether you need plumbing work, and the size of your setup.
For instance, a basic station with a repurposed tub and simple hose attachment will cost you as little as $100-$300.
However, a more advanced station with professional fixtures can range between $500-$2,000.
Alsom if you already have access to plumbing, your costs will be significantly lower than if you need to install new water lines.
Can you build a dog wash station in a small home?
Yes, you can.
Even if you have limited space, you can still create a compact and efficient dog wash station.
You can use a deep sink in your laundry room or garage for small dogs. Also, you can install a foldable wash basin that can be stored when not in use.
And if outdoor space is available to you, a hose attachment with a raised platform can work well too.
What materials are best for a DIY dog washing station?
Durability and water resistance are the most important factors when you’re selecting materials.
And to that end, stainless steel tubs are a popular choice because they are rust-resistant and easy to clean.
Tile is another great option, especially for built-in stations, as it provides a waterproof and aesthetic finish.
For flooring, non-slip tiles, rubber mats, or textured surfaces work best to ensure your dog doesn’t slip during bath time. And if you’re installing splash guards, acrylic or PVC panels are affordable and easy to maintain.
How do you prevent dog hair from clogging the drain?
Clogged drains are a common issue with dog wash stations, especially for breeds that shed heavily.
To prevent this, you can install a drain filter or hair catcher that traps fur before it enters the pipes.
Also, you should clean the drain area regularly after each bath to minimize buildup.
Should you install hot and cold water in your dog wash station?
Yes, if possible you should.
Dogs are sensitive to temperature extremes, and cold water from a garden hose can be uncomfortable.
This is exactly why I suggest Installing a mixing valve to control water temperature and ensure your pup has a comfortable bath experience.
Can you use your dog wash station for other purposes?
Absolutely!
A lot of pet owners find their dog wash station useful for rinsing off muddy boots, cleaning gardening tools, or even washing large household items like rugs or pet bedding.
Final words
As you can see, building a DIY dog wash station is easier than it seems and you need not be an expert to install one. And not only does this make grooming your pup easy, but it also keeps your home cleaner.
Got more questions about how to build your own DIY dog washer?
You can get in touch with us!
At Dawg Team Apparel USA, we are more than just an online dog store. We are also seasoned dog grooming and boarding experts with years of experience bringing top-notch pet care to Memphis and beyond.
And from clothing to pregnancy to grooming, and more, we’ve got all your dog’s needs covered on a budget.
